What’s in season this autumn

There’s something special about this time of year: the crisp, cooler weather, the anticipation of seasonal celebrations (and never-ending public holidays). And then of course there's the abundance of fresh produce that comes with it. From apples and pears to sweet potatoes and beetroot, autumn offers an exciting variety of fruit and vegetables at their peak. By enjoying what’s in season, you're not only savouring the best of autumn, but also supporting sustainable farming practices. Here’s what you can expect to find in Woolworths stores – and a few recipes to help you make the most of this season’s harvest.

Fruit

Apples

You know it's autumn when the produce aisle is abundant with apples. Varieties such as Granny Smith, with its sharp, tangy flavour, and Fuji, which is sweet and crisp, are perfect for snacking, baking or adding to salads. For a warm, comforting dessert, try baking apples with cinnamon and honey. If you're looking for a refreshing twist, Golden Delicious apples have a sweeter flavour and work well in smoothies or paired with cheese for a light, flavourful snack.

apple pudding recipe

Pears

Pears are at their peak now, and you'll find both Forelle and Packham pears at Woolies. Forelle pears are easy to spot thanks to their slight red blush and smaller size. They're crisp, with a balance of sweetness and tartness. These pears are perfect for snacking or adding to salads, and their firm texture makes them ideal for tarts or baking. On the other hand, Packham pears are known for their smooth, buttery texture and sweeter flavour. They work wonderfully in both sweet and savoury dishes – try them poached or baked into a crumble. Both types of pears also pair well with cheese, making them a great addition to cheeseboards.

whole baked pears recipe

Figs

There's nothing quite like biting into a ripe fig. Woolworths offers a selection of soft-eating Turkish figs, Adams figs and black Mission figs. The Adams figs are grown on a family-run farm in Prince Albert in the Karoo and are known for their rich, honey-like sweetness and soft, jammy flesh. They're ideal for snacking, adding to salads, or pairing with cheese and prosciutto. Black Mission figs have a deep purple skin and red flesh and are perfect for baking or roasting. Soft-eating figs are the most tender of the bunch and are fantastic eaten as is or served with yoghurt and a drizzle of honey.

honeyed figs recipe

Guavas

Guavas bring a bit of tropical flair to the season. They have a fragrant, floral aroma and a slightly tangy-sweet flavour. Pink guavas are the most common. For a jammy, autumnal treat, try making spiced stewed guavas – simmer the fruit with warm spices to transform them into a syrupy, fragrant compote that’s perfect for spooning over vanilla ice cream or yoghurt.

poached guava cake recipe

Pomegranates

Is there a more beautiful fruit than the pomegranate? The seeds (or rubies or arils) are perfect for mixing into yoghurt or adding to grain bowls for a pop of fresh, sweet-tart flavour. When choosing pomegranates, look for firm fruit with a deep red colour. To easily remove the seeds, score the pomegranate and submerge it in water—the seeds will fall out easily, leaving behind the pith. Try using pomegranate seeds in a warming autumn couscous salad or a simple roasted vegetable dish.

trout salad recipe

Vegetables

Butternut and pumpkin

Butternut and pumpkin are members of the same veggie family. As the temperatures slowly drop in autumn, these vegetables thrive, offering a natural sweetness that complements the hearty, warming dishes we crave. Their dense, creamy texture makes them ideal for soups, stews and casseroles, while their versatility allows them to be roasted, mashed or even baked into pies. These vegetables also absorb and enhance the flavours of autumn spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and sage, making them the ideal choice for creating warming, satisfying meals as we transition into cooler weather.

hasselback butternut recipe

Leafy greens

Autumn is the perfect time for spinach, kale and cavolo nero (black kale). These leafy greens thrive in the cooler weather, bringing great flavour to many autumn dishes. Spinach is tender and versatile  – use it in quick sautés, soups and stews. Kale, with its sturdy leaves, works well in everything from soups to roasted sides or hearty salads. Cavolo nero, with its long, dark and slightly wrinkled leaves, offers a deeper, more earthy flavour compared to regular kale, making it perfect for risottos, stews or simply sautéed with garlic and olive oil. These greens pair beautifully with root vegetables including carrots and sweet potatoes.

creamed spinach recipe

Beetroot

Beetroot is at its best in autumn. It has an earthy, slightly sweet flavour that adds depth to any dish. Whether it's roasted, boiled or pickled, beetroot brings a vibrant colour and rich flavour to autumn salads, soups and side dishes. Roasting beetroot enhances its natural sweetness and intensifies its flavour, making it a great match for earthy cheeses such as goat's cheese or salty feta. It also pairs well with citrus and can be tossed into a simple salad with walnuts for added crunch. Beetroot can also be used in baking – try adding it to chocolate cakes or brownies for a unique twist on a classic recipe.

beetroot curry recipe

Carrots

While carrots are available year-round, they truly shine in autumn. As the weather cools, carrots develop a deeper, sweeter flavour. This is also when they’re harvested at their peak, ensuring you get the freshest and most flavourful variety. Roasting carrots brings out their natural sweetness but for an extra-special touch, try honey-glazing them. You can also pair carrots with cinnamon or cumin to complement their sweetness. And for a comforting dessert, grated carrots can add richness to cakes or muffins.

carrot salad recipe

Sweet potatoes

Autumn is when sweet potatoes really come into their own, and Woolworths offers two fantastic varieties: Kara orange and Kara sweet potatoes. The Kara orange sweet potato has smooth, bright orange flesh and a naturally sweet flavour that deepens when roasted. This variety is perfect for dishes where you want that natural sweetness to shine. It also works wonderfully in baked goods, like the iconic sweet potato pie. The Kara sweet potato has purple skin, white flesh and a milder, more neutral flavour. This makes it ideal for savoury dishes, as it holds its shape well during cooking. It's great in stews and curries, or simply roasted with herbs such as rosemary and thyme.

harissa sweet potatoes recipe

Woolworths’ Farming for the Future initiative focuses on cultivating a more sustainable agricultural sector, ensuring that farming practices benefit both the environment and local communities. From reducing water usage to enhancing biodiversity, this initiative supports farmers who are committed to responsible land management and responsible farming practices. By choosing Woolworths' seasonal produce, you’re supporting this important movement and helping to shape a more sustainable food future for South Africa.